HC Deb 28 June 1977 vol 934 cc216-7

Our reference: S904/4/011

Date: 20th June 1977

Sir,

EDUCATION ACT 1976, SECTION 2 PROPOSALS

I am directed by the Secretary of State to thank you for your letter of 16th May with which was enclosed the Buckinghamshire County Council's draft proposals for the reorganisation of all secondary schools in the County (excluding Milton Keynes) so as to give effect to the comprehensive principle.

I note that the authority have offered one set of proposals for each of the areas listed below:

  1. (a)Buckingham/Winslow area
  2. (b)Bumham and Iver
  3. (c)Beaconsfield
  4. (d)Chesham, Great Missenden and Holmer Green
and that for the following three areas the authority have prepared alternative proposals:
  1. (a)Aylesbury, Wendover, Wing, Waddesdon
  2. (b)Amersham, Chalfonts and Denham
  3. (c)Wycombe

The Secretary of State understands that formal proposals will be submitted as soon as possible after the consultative processes have been completed. The Secretary of State is certain that the authority have no wish to disobey the law or to indulge in any deliberate procrastination and she is aware of the importance of adequate consultation. However, the duty laid upon the authority must be carried out with all reasonable speed even if this means accelerating processes of consultation that the Council may wish to conduct. I am to say that the Secretary of State would therefore expect the authority to complete its consultation processes including those required by Section 2(2) of the 1976 Education Act, in time to enable it to submit formal proposals in respect of all areas after the meeting of the Council which it is understood takes place on 28th July.

If for any reason the authority believe themselves to be unable to meet this date they should inform the Secretary of State at once giving reasons.

I am to remind the authority that officers of the Department are available to assist at any time.

I am Sir,

Your obedient Servant,

A. H. Prosser.